Mississippi State Specific Regulations

PWCSafetySchool.com is recognized as meeting Mississippi's boater education requirements. Upon successful completion of this course you will be sent a Mississippi boater safety card. For additional information contact Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, PO Box 451, Jackson, MS 39205-0451.

Personal Watercraft:

In addition to adhering to all boating laws, PWC operators have requirements specific to their watercraft.

Persons less than 12 years of age shall not operate a personal watercraft or motorboat, unless accompanied by an adult 21 years of age or older and certified to operate the vessel. Proof of course completion must be carried onboard while the vessel is in operation.

PWCs should not be operated in a manner that requires the operator to veer at the last possible moment to avoid collision. A PWC must not be operated at an excessive speed within 100 feet of another occupied vessel, except in a crossing situation or overtaking another vessel in accordance with standard navigation rules.

A PWC may not jump or attempt to jump the wake of another vessel within 100 feet of that vessel.

A PWC may not follow within 100 feet of a water skier, wake boarder, tuber, or any person being towed.

In Mississippi it is illegal to operate a personal watercraft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

It is illegal to chase, harass or disturb wildlife while operating a PWC.

An operator of a PWC equipped with a lanyard-type ignition safety switch must always attach the lanyard to their person, clothing or PFD.

PWC operation is limited to daylight hours only.

Age Restrictions:

Anyone born after June 30, 1980 must successfully complete a NASBLA approved boating safety course prior to operating any motorized vessel. Proof of course completion must be carried on board while the vessel is in operation.

Personal Flotation Devices:

All PWC operators and passengers must wear an approved Type I, II, III or V PFD. Inflatable PFD's are not allowed.

Persons 12 years and younger must wear an approved Type I, II, III or V PFD when above decks and underway on any vessel less than 26 feet.

Boats 16 feet and over require one wearable type PFD per person on board plus one throwable type PFD.

Each person riding or being towed behind a PWC must wear a Type I, II or III U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD. It is recommended that those onboard a PWC wear special PFDs designed to withstand the impact of hitting the water at a high rate of speed.

Speed Limits and Reckless Operation:

No vessel shall be operated within Mississippi in a reckless or negligent manner or at a rate of speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under existing circumstances.

Navigation Rules:

United States Coast Guard Inland and International navigation rules apply to, and should be learned and obeyed by boaters in the State of Mississippi.

River Navigation, Dams, Locks and Bridges:

Vessel operators may encounter physical structures such as dams, bridges and locks. Operators need to take extra caution in these situations.

Low head and conventional dams pose dangers, both above and below the dams. Low head dams vary in height, from one to several feet below the water's surface. Though their drop may be small, you must never assume you can go over without danger. Also remember that water flowing over a low-head dam creates a strong recirculating current known as a backroller, (sometimes referred to as a "boil") on the downriver side of the dam. Even on small rivers, the force of the backroller can trap and hold a vessel or debris against the downriver face of the dam. This recirculating current can also pull a person under water and back against the dam, even if they are wearing a PFD (life jacket). Be aware that on large rivers or at high water the backroller or boil may extend more than 100 feet downstream from the dam. Avoid low head dams when boating.

Conventional dams with their powerhouses and spillways are easily recognizable. You should stay clear both above and below the dams.

Locks:

By learning how to navigate through locks, you will have a host of new opportunities for pleasure boating on Mississippi rivers. Lock attendants are present at most locks to help you navigate your vessel safely through.

A series of dams on a river help maintain a constant river depth to allow vessel traffic to operate year-round. As a result of the dam, there are usually two levels of water at the location of the dam. Locks are in place to safely transport boats from one level to another, much like an elevator in a building.

When Approaching the Lock:

Be aware commercial and government vessels always have priority over recreational vessels.

Wait at least 400 feet away from the lock, or in a designated holding area for the signal from the attendant to enter the lock.

Vessel operators can alert the lock attendant of their request to transit through the lock by sounding one prolonged blast followed by one short blast of your vessel's whistle or horn. Operators may also contact the attendant using the marine VHF radio on Channel 13, (on low power only) but never interrupt commercial or governmental communication.

Enter the lock only after being signaled to do so by the lock's traffic lights or by the lock attendant. Otherwise, stay well clear of the lock and vessels leaving the lock.

When Using Locks, Boaters Should:

Have at least 100 feet of line or rope and fenders for use in securing the vessel inside the lock.

Follow the lock attendant's instructions and proceed slowly into the lock, watching the lock assistant for directions as to securing your vessel.

Avoid passing another vessel when inside the lock, unless directed to do so by the lock attendant.

Wait for the attendant's signal to untie your vessel and exit the lock.

Bridges:

Nearly all Mississippi bridges are high enough to provide normal PWC or boat passage.

Mississippi requires that boats pass under bridges at a slow or "no wake" speed. Vessel operators should always reduce speed and proceed with caution near any bridge or any other man made structure that reduces visibility and passage.

Know that debris can collect around bridge pilings and create obstructions.

Tides on Costal Waters:

Vessel operators in coastal waters need to be mindful of tidal effects. The rise and fall of tides can cause water levels to vary several feet and can produce strong currents. This, in turn, can cause vessels to run aground in areas where earlier navigation may have been safe. The change in the tides can also affect docking to a fixed pier. Some tidal currents, through narrow passages, are strong enough that some vessels will not be able to make headway against the current.

Vessel operators need to possess knowledge of daily tides in the area they are boating. You should learn how to read tide tables found in many coastal area newspapers, sporting goods, and boating stores. Tide schedules can also be found on NOAA weather radio channels on your Marine VHF radio.

Water Skiing:

Water skiing, being towed on a tube, kneeboard, wakeboard or riding a similar device, are popular water sports.

Make sure the skier is wearing a U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD (life jacket) that fits properly and is designed for water skiing. Ski belts are not Coast Guard approved and unsafe. A PFD with a high impact rating is recommended for water skiing or similar water sports.

Be familiar with the area where you intend to ski or be towed. Be aware of such hazards as shallow water or objects just under the water such as rocks, rotted dock pilings, or bridge pilings in the water.

Avoid congested areas such as beaches, docks, narrow channels, swimming areas, launch ramps etc.

Never ski or tow persons at night. It is both hazardous, and unlawful in Mississippi.

When on the Water, a Skier Should:

Wear a PFD. A hard fall could knock you unconscious.

Learn to use water skiing hand signals. Make sure the operator and spotter know them as well.

Never ski while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It's illegal and extremely dangerous.

Never spray or ski in close proximity to swimmers, vessels or other skiers. It's dangerous, discourteous and illegal in Mississippi.

Never wrap any part of the tow rope around your body, arm, or other appendage while being towed.

Always hold the ski or wakeboard up out of the water after falling or dropping the rope, so the vessel operator and other vessels can see your location.

Never approach a vessel's stern or swim step unless the engine has been shut off.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling:

S.C.U.B.A. diving is a popular water sport. Divers can be found in areas shared with recreational boaters.

As a Vessel Operator You Should:

Be able to recognize a "diver down" flag - a red flag with a white diagonal stripe floating in the area of the divers. Keep a distance of at least 50 feet from the flag at all times.

Keep a look out for air bubbles breaking the surface of the water. The bubbles indicate a diver is directly below.

Accident Reporting:

Most accident reports must be submitted within 5 days of the accident, except when a death results from a boating accident, then the written report must be submitted within 48 hours.

It is the duty of the operator of any vessel involved in a boating accident to remain at the scene until all necessary aid and assistance has been rendered, which includes ensuring that any person(s) injured in the accident receive medical treatment. A person can not be held liable for any civil damages for any assistance rendered in good faith and in a prudent manner.

Report Accidents To:

The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks if the accident occurs north of Interstate 10.

Mississippi Department of Marine Resources if the accident occurs south of Interstate 10.

Boating While Intoxicated:

The Mississippi Alcohol Boating Safety Act prohibits anyone from operating a vessel, powered by a motor of 25 horsepower (hp) or greater, or a PWC while under the influence of alcohol or any combination of alcohol, controlled substances or drugs. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, judgment, coordination of movement, blurred vision and slow reaction time. Alcohol is a factor in approximately one-third of all boating accidents nationwide.

The effect of alcohol is increased by the natural stressors placed on your body while boating. Also, the dehydration of your body caused by exposure to natural stressors, in turn, causes alcohol to be absorbed more quickly into your system. Research has proven that one-third the amount of alcohol it takes to make a person legally intoxicated on the road can make a boater equally intoxicated on the water.

Alcohol depresses the central nervous system and affects judgment, slowing reaction time. Most people become slightly intoxicated after only one drink. Alcohol makes it difficult for you to pay attention, especially to multiple tasks. Alcohol impairment increases the likelihood of accidents - for both passengers and the vessel's operator. Always designate non-drinking boaters to operate the vessel. Do not let a skipper continue operating if they have been drinking. Drinking while boating is a choice. The best way to minimize the risk of an accident is to make the wise choice.

Don't Drink and Boat!

The Mississippi Alcohol Boating Safety Act states:

It is evidence of intoxication if a person has a BAC concentration of 0.10% or more alcohol in his or her blood, based upon chemical analysis of their breath, blood or urine. Intoxicated is defined in Mississippi law, as being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs such that a person's thoughts and actions are impaired, and the person has a loss of normal control facilities and function to such an extent as to cause danger to others.

It is unlawful for the owner of a vessel to allow anyone else to operate their vessel while that person is intoxicated.

The Mississippi Alcohol Boating Safety Act establishes the following penalties:

1. 1. Those arrested and convicted of boating while intoxicated (BUI) may face penalties of up to $1,000 and two days in jail for a first conviction.

2. 2. If you receive a second conviction for BUI within 5 years, you may be fined, jailed and will also lose your privilege to operate a vessel in Mississippi for one year. More severe penalties exist for additional convictions.

3. 3. A person who is boating while intoxicated and causes the death or serious injury of another person will, upon conviction for BUI, be guilty of a felony.

4. 4. By operating on Mississippi waterways, an operator of a vessel is deemed to have given consent to be tested for alcohol if requested by a law enforcement officer. Refusal to submit to the test will subject the person to punishment consistent with the penalties described above and loose the privilege to operate a vessel for at least one year.

Discharge of Trash:

The Act to Prevent Pollution From Ships places limitations on the discharge of garbage from vessels in federal waters. Mississippi Ordinance No. 10.003 places similar restrictions on Mississippi marine waters.

It is illegal to dump garbage and plastics into federally controlled or state waters.

Boaters must store trash in a container onboard, and place it in a proper receptacle after returning to shore.

All vessels on marine waters south of Interstate 10 (I-10) must have onboard a clearly marked, closed container for proper disposal of trash and other garbage. Closed containers must be sealed and of sufficient size for the number of people onboard and the length of the cruise. A sign must be displayed informing all on board that it is illegal to dispose of trash, waste and other garbage into the marine waters of Mississippi.

Discharge of Oil and Other Hazardous Substances:

The Federal Water Pollution Control Act Regulations require all vessels that have propulsion machinery to have a capacity onboard to retain oil mixtures. On recreational vessels, a bucket or bailer is adequate.

Boaters are not allowed to discharge oil or hazardous substances the water.

Boaters must discharge oil waste at a reception facility only.

Boaters must immediately notify the U.S. Coast Guard if their vessel discharges oil or hazardous substances into the water. Call the toll-free phone number: 1-800-424-8802. Report the location, color, source, type of substance, time observed, and any other information requested about the discharge. Boaters must also call the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and report the information about the discharge.

Homeland Security Restrictions:

All boaters have a role in keeping our public waterways safe and secure.

Boaters shall not approach within 100 yards of any U.S. Naval vessel, whether anchored or under way. Boaters must also slow to minimum speed if they are within 500 yards of any U.S. Naval vessel. If you need to pass within 100 yards of a U.S. Naval vessel, you must contact the U.S. Naval vessel or the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) escort vessel on VHF-FM Channel 16 to ask for permission.

Observe and avoid all security zones. Avoid any commercial port operation areas, especially those that involve military, cruise-line, cargo or petroleum facilities.

Observe and avoid restricted areas around dams, electrical power plants, etc.

Do not stop or anchor beneath bridges or in narrow channels where vision and maneuvering is restricted.

Violators of these restrictions can expect quick and severe response. Keep a sharp eye out for anything that looks peculiar or out of the ordinary. Report all suspicious activities to local law enforcement or the USCG.

Registration/Documentation:

Mississippi law requires all sailboats and every undocumented vessel equipped with propulsion machinery using Mississippi's territorial and navigable waters to be registered and numbered for identification. The owner of any vessel required to be numbered or registered must do so within ten days from the date of acquisition.

The Certificate of Number and validation decals are obtained by submitting an application to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks (MDWFP). The Certificate of Number (pocket-sized plastic registration card) must be onboard and available for inspection by an enforcement officer whenever the vessel is operated. The Certificate of Number is valid for three years from the last day of the month printed on the receipt of the original or transferred certificate. If there is a change of address or the vessel is lost, stolen or abandoned, the MDWFP must be notified within 15 days.

The numbers and validation stickers are placed on both port and starboard sides. The numbers shall read from left to right and shall be in block characters not less than 3 inches in height. The validation stickers should be displayed within six inches of the numbers. Letters and numbers must be separated by a space or hyphen and should be of contrasting color with the vessel's hull. For example: 3748 AW or MI-3748-AW

Boats built after 1972 must have a 12 digit hull identification number and this number is required on the application for registration.

If a registered vessel is sold or transferred to another person the buyer must apply for a Certificate of Number to be transferred to their name within 10 days of the purchase. The seller is required to report such a transaction to the MDWFP.

A vessel from another state may operate on Mississippi waters for a period not to exceed 60 consecutive days, as long as they are properly registered in another state.

Additional information may be obtained from:
Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks
PO Box 451,
Jackson, MS 39205-0451

Enforcement:

The boating laws are enforced by the officers of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, U.S. Coast Guard officers and any other authorized peace officer or law enforcement officer of the State of Mississippi. They have the authority to stop and board vessels in order to check for compliance with all state and federal laws. The U.S. Coast Guard also has enforcement authority powers on all federally controlled waters.

Mississippi and federal boating laws are presented in a summarized form. The laws in their entirety can be found by consulting Mississippi State Law. These laws are subject to change. It is the responsibility of the operator to be aware of the most current laws when operating a boat.

Certain bodies of water in Mississippi have local restrictions as to type and size of watercraft or motor horsepower, restricted use areas, boat speed, and times for use. Check with the local authorities for these additional restrictions.